Normal values for superior vena cava flow in preterm neonates using a new echocardiographic approach

Abstract

Objective Recently, a novel approach to imaging Superior Vena Cava (SVC) flow has been presented, showing better repeatability and better agreement with MRI‐derived SVC flow measures. The objective was to establish normal values of SVC flow with the novel approach in the first 48 h of life. Study Design This was a prospective, observational study. All infants with gestational age (GA) less than 31 weeks were eligible. Echocardiographic evaluation was performed at 5, 12, 24, 48 h of postnatal life. A subgroup of uncomplicated infants was studied to define a normal range for SVC flow. Results Forty‐five infants were enrolled. We estimated normative values in a subgroup of 31 uncomplicated infants. The median SVC flow significantly increases from 83 ml/kg/min at 5 h of life to 153 ml/kg/min at 48 h (p < .001). Conclusion Using the novel approach we derived normal values of SVC flow in a cohort of uncomplicated preterm population at high risk for developing IVH.